The Simpson ECCQ7.1-8SDS2.5 End Column Cap is a heavy-duty structural connector engineered by Simpson Strong-Tie to deliver strong, reliable column-to-beam connections in end-of-beam applications throughout wood construction. Designed for a 7-inch beam width and a nominal 8x post, this cap generally eliminates the need for additional brackets or braces, simplifying the structural connection while maintaining high load-transfer performance. Its seat extends beyond the side of the column to provide an additional bearing surface area that helps distribute load from the beam more efficiently. Built from 3-gauge steel with certified welds and a Simpson Strong-Tie gray paint finish, this end column cap ships complete with 28 included 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws, so the connection is ready to install right out of the box.

Key Features

• Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector screws included - 28 screws (Model: SDS25212) are included in the package, so no separate fastener purchase is needed and installation can begin immediately.
• Lower-profile SDS screw fastening - The SDS screws provide a lower profile than standard through bolts, resulting in a cleaner finish and reduced interference with adjacent framing members.
• Extended seat bearing surface - The cap seat reaches beyond the side of the column, distributing beam load over a greater area and reinforcing overall connection integrity at end-of-beam positions.
• Certified welds - Welds meet certification standards, giving builders and inspectors confidence in the connector's strength and load-carrying reliability.
• Enhanced uplift resistance for seismic and wind loading - Uplift load values have been increased to meet the demands of earthquake and high-wind conditions, making this cap well-suited for projects in high-load environments.
• Diamond holes for temporary fastening - Diamond-shaped holes allow the cap to be temporarily secured during positioning, helping streamline alignment before final installation.
• 3-gauge steel construction - Heavy 3-gauge steel provides the structural rigidity needed for demanding post-and-beam assemblies without requiring supplemental bracing in most configurations.
• Simpson Strong-Tie gray paint finish - The factory-applied gray paint finish provides a consistent, professional appearance and serves as a base layer of protection for the steel connector.

Why This Product

• A complete, installation-ready connection - Because 28 Strong-Drive SDS screws are included in the package, contractors and builders can go straight from delivery to installation without sourcing additional hardware separately.
• Engineered for end-of-beam structural demands - The ECCQ design is purpose-built for end-of-beam column-to-beam connections, with an extended bearing seat that distributes load beyond the column face - a critical advantage in post-and-beam assemblies where load concentration is highest at end positions.
• Built to handle seismic and high-wind uplift forces - With uplift loads increased specifically for earthquake and wind loading scenarios, this column cap is a dependable choice for projects in regions where elevated lateral and uplift forces are a design consideration.
• Replaces multiple components with a single connector - By generally eliminating the need for additional brackets or braces, this end column cap simplifies the structural assembly, reduces parts count on the job site, and speeds up installation without sacrificing connection strength.

Specifications

• Model Number: ECCQ7.1-8SDS2.5
• Beam Width: 7 in.
• Nominal Post Size: 8x
• Member Size: 7 in. beam, 8x post
• Width 2: 7-1/2 in.
• Width 1: 7-1/8 in.
• Height: 7 in.
• Length: 8-1/2 in.
• Dimension W1: 7-1/8 in.
• Dimension W2: 7-1/2 in.
• Dimension L: 8-1/2 in.
• Dimension H: 7 in.
• Material: 3-Gauge Steel
• Finish / Coating: Simpson Strong-Tie Gray Paint
• Fastener Type: 1/4 in. x 2-1/2 in. Strong-Drive SDS Heavy-Duty Connector Screws
• SDS Screws Included: 28 total - 14 for beam, 14 for post (Model: SDS25212)
• Country of Origin: United States

Approved Applications

• End-of-beam column-to-beam connections in wood construction
• Structural post-and-beam assemblies requiring a nominal 8x post and 7-inch beam
• Projects requiring enhanced uplift resistance for seismic (earthquake) loading
• Projects requiring enhanced uplift resistance for high-wind loading conditions
• Wood construction applications where a lower-profile fastener connection is preferred over through-bolt methods